21st Annual Brazen Dropout Bike Swap F.A.Q.
New F.A.Q.s are highlighted.
- Q1: Why go to the Bike Swap?
- Q2: Who can sell stuff at the Bike Swap?
- Q3: What can I sell at the Bike Swap?
- Q4: How big is a table? Can I rent more than one table?
- Q5: Does the table include any chairs or do we bring them?
- Q6: Can I select where my table is going to be?
- Q7: May I share a table with someone?
- Q8: What's Expo space?
- Q9: Who can rent Expo space?
- Q10: What if I just have a bike or two to sell?
- Q11: What exactly is the Bike Corral?
- Q12: Is there any food at the Bike Swap?
- Q13: I run/am part of a non-profit organization or grassroots club. Any way I can get a free, or at least a discounted table?
- Q14: Didn't you used to accept registrations right up until the Swap?
Q1: Why go to the Bike Swap?
A: It's the middle of winter, it's cold and you miss being outside on your bike. Come inside and spend some time at what is arguably the largest bike swap in the Midwest. Perhaps you are looking for a rare, vintage part that will complete your bike restoration. You want to see some of the newest bicyling gear. Maybe you just want to be surrounded by people who share your passion for all things cycling.
Q2: Who can sell stuff at the Bike Swap?
A: Anyone can sell stuff at the Swap. So, come on, rent a table, rent "Expo" space and/or put a bike for sale in the Bike Corral. Remember, visit Registration if you want a table or Expo space.
Q3: What can I sell at the Bike Swap?
A: Most people sell bicycles, and stuff relevant to bikes! Maybe you just want to get the word out about your new club, your magazine, or a bike advocacy organization.
Q4: How big is a table? Can I rent more than one table?
A: The tables are 8 ft long and yes, you can rent as many tables as are available for $50 each ($70 after December 12th).
Q5: Does the table include any chairs or do we bring them?
A: You bet it does! Each table rented includes two chairs.
Q6: Can I select where my table is going to be?
A: No. We encountered loads of issues when we offered self-serve table selections. In addition, this year we are in a different part of the Alliant Energy Center, so the table locations will be different from last year's locations. However, we do try to honor most special requests on a first come, first serve basis. For example, do you want your table next to someone else's table? Let us know ASAP and we'll do what we can; and even better, send in your registration forms together.
Q7: May I share a table with someone?
A: Yes, but the details and arrangements are up to you and the person with the table.
Q8: What's Expo space?
A: It's a 10 ft by 10 ft section of the floor. All Expo spaces are grouped together. Why not put up a tent and setup a bike shop?
Q9: Who can rent Expo space?
A: Anyone can. Typically you will find some of your larger retailers and manufacturers in these spaces. It's priced at $200 per space.
Q10: What if I just have a bike or two to sell?
A: You can sell your bike at the Bike Corral whether you have a table or not. You do not need to register ahead of time. The cost to put a bike in the Corral is your entry fee ($7) plus $10 per bike.
Q11: What exactly is the Bike Corral?
A: It's a spot on the Exhibition floor specifically for bikes that people want to sell. It is an enclosed area with racks that is monitored by our staff. That way, you can walk around the Swap and figure out ways to spend the money you make selling your bike. Our Bike Corral registration form permits you to indicate when you will be next to your bike, so potential buyers can talk to you. It is important to realize that we don't actually sell your bike. We just provide a well lit, warm and safe spot for it.
Q12: Is there any food at the Bike Swap?
A: The Alliant Energy Center provides a concessions area where you can purchase coffee and bagels. When it's lunch time you can get a salad, a wrap, or satisfy your hunger with a brat.
Q13: I run/am part of a non-profit organization or grassroots club. Any way I can get a free, or at least a discounted table?
A: Possibly! Chances are we'd like to help you out, so get in touch and we'll see what we can do. It's best to contact us shortly after registration opens, as there is considerable demand for tables.
Q14: Didn't you used to accept registrations right up until the Swap?
A: Yes. We decided to freeze registration postmarks on December 24th this year to give the swap coordinator enough time to assign tables, package up the swap vendor packets, and mail them so that they'll arrive several days before the Swap.